What is Musculoskeletal ultrasound?

Musculoskeletal ultrasound is a safe, painless, and highly effective imaging technique that uses sound waves to create real-time images of the body's soft tissues. Unlike traditional scans, it doesn't involve radiation, making it a gentle and risk-free option for people of all ages.

This test allows doctors to see muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and cartilage. It's beneficial for identifying problems in joints and soft tissues, especially those related to orthopaedic injuries, sports injuries, or chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

MSK ultrasound's ability to capture movement in real time sets it apart. For instance, if the patient experiences pain only when a joint is in motion, a Musculoskeletal ultrasound can detect abnormalities that a still image (like an X-ray or MRI) might miss. This dynamic view provides deeper insight into the body's functions and helps doctors diagnose more accurately.

Whether you're dealing with a rotator cuff tear, joint inflammation, or an old injury that's acting up, Musculoskeletal ultrasound offers a fast, clear, and comfortable way to get to the root of the problem without any discomfort or downtime.

Procedure details

Before the procedure

On the day of your exam, it's best to wear loose, comfortable clothing. You may be asked to change into a hospital gown when you arrive for the ultrasound.

The good news is that no special preparation is needed; you can eat, drink, and take your medications as usual unless your doctor advises otherwise. Just relax and come in ready for a quick, simple, and painless procedure.

During the procedure

When you come in for your Musculoskeletal ultrasound, you'll be made comfortable sitting on an exam table, lying down, or seated in a special chair, depending on the examined area. The position is chosen to help get the clearest view of the joint or soft tissue.

A small amount of warm gel will be gently applied to your skin over the area of concern. This gel helps the handheld device, called a transducer, move smoothly and send sound waves into the body to create real-time images of your muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, or nerves.

The healthcare provider may ask you to move the affected joint or limb slightly during the exam. This helps assess how your body moves and allows us to detect any changes that might not be visible when you're at rest. It's especially helpful in identifying pain or instability that occurs only with motion.

The procedure is quick, painless, and radiation-free, usually taking 20 to 30 minutes. It might be performed by our rheumatology specialists, who are all trained to ensure your comfort while gathering accurate images.

After the procedure

Once your musculoskeletal ultrasound is complete, you can go about your day as usual; there is no downtime or recovery needed.

Our expert will carefully review the images captured during your scan and prepare a detailed report. These findings will be shared with your doctor, who will then discuss the results with you, explain what they mean, and guide you on the next steps, if any are needed.

At Apex Hospitals, we support you through every step, with clear answers, compassionate care, and a commitment to your well-being.